If this is your first visit, be sure to
check out the FAQ by clicking the
link above. You may have to register
before you can post: click the register link above to proceed. To start viewing messages,
select the forum that you want to visit from the selection below.

Board Dimension Question

Right now I'm on a 5'7, 19 1/2, 2 3/16 Firewire El Fuego. It's a good small wave board with most of the volume in front, but I'm looking for a board that will ride a bit more like a shortboard in our surf. I found a decent used board that's 5'7, 18 1/2 (might be a little wider than this), 2 3/8. I'm 5 foot 8 and about 145 pounds and was wondering if you think this board would float me in smaller surf. The rocker is pretty flat but has a profile that looks like it will ride more like a shortboard. Thanks for the help.

Hey choppa, it's really tough to tell based on dimensions alone. Like DaMook said, it really does depend on volume.

For example, picture a really high performace shortboard outline. A pulled in nose greatly reduces the amount of foam in the first 1/4 to 1/3 of the board. Now take, let's say a small wave groveler. It may be the same dimension at the widest point, but it is a fuller outline overall which increases volume and therefore the amount it floats you.